Old Timey Chicken Stew
A hearty, flavorful chicken stew featuring tender hen, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or cold weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the cut-up hen in oil in a large pot.
- Remove the cooked hen from the pot and set aside.
- Add flour to the pot and cook slowly to make a roux.
- Add chopped bell peppers, celery, and onions; cook until soft.
- Return the hen to the pot and add hot water.
- Cook for three hours.
- Add chopped green onion tops and parsley; cook for five minutes.
- Remove the hen from the stew. Dumplings can be added if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of herbs like thyme or rosemary in addition to parsley. If you prefer a thicker stew, add more flour to the roux. You can substitute the hen with chicken thighs for a juicier result. If you're short on time, try adding frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh. This stew is perfect for pairing with crusty bread or even a side of Tangy Coleslaw.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with warm, crusty bread or over fluffy rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Jackie'S Apple Dumplings for dessert. For a lighter option, a simple salad or steamed vegetables can balance the richness of the stew. Consider offering a side of pickled cucumbers for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Timey Chicken Stew contains roughly 687 calories, with 21g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (109% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), and potassium (49% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this stew?
Yes, you can substitute the hen with chicken thighs or even turkey for a different flavor. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the meat chosen, as different cuts may require more or less time to become tender.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If your stew turns out thicker than desired, simply add more hot water or broth, stirring until you reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary, as diluting the stew may require a bit more salt or spices.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the hen and making the roux, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the hot water and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).